By Miriam Humbe
The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, on Thursday, highlighted significant milestones attained by the Nigeria Police Force in the past 7 weeks, demonstrating a relentless commitment to ensuring the safety and security of all citizens.
The IGP revealed this at the monthly Police Conference with Strategic Police Managers comprising members of the Force Management Team, Assistant Inspectors-General of Police, Commissioners of Police and Heads of Tactical Units.
A statement signed by the Force Public Relations Officer (FPRO), ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi on Thursday said that during this period, the NPF had made remarkable strides in combating violent crimes.
Notably, a total of 814 violent criminal suspects have been apprehended, disrupting criminal networks and bringing perpetrators to justice.
Additionally, the diligent efforts of the NPF have led to the successful rescue of 107 kidnapped victims, and the recovery of 166 sophisticated firearms, 1,074 various ammunition, and 41 vehicles.
The IGP highlighted some of the successes to include the arrest of 3 notorious kidnappers in the FCT; 9 suspects in connection to attacks on Mangu, Plateau State; rescue of kidnapped victims in the FCT, Rivers, Ekiti, and Kwara States amongst others.
Furthermore, the IGP acknowledged the efforts of the NPF Explosive Ordnance Disposal Unit (EOD) to calming the tension associated with explosion risks in prone areas across the country, as well as the efforts of the National Cyber Crime Centre (NPF-NCCC) in clamping down on individuals and groups engaged in cyber related crimes to the tune of over 36 billion Naira.
The IGP similarly noted that the strategic deployments of the NPF during the just concluded run-off/bye elections across 26 states of the Federation paid off as 14 suspects were arrested, including 2 public officials for election related offences, while 1 pistol was recovered, and a thug was lynched by members of the public.
He stated that the arrested suspects would be handed over to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) upon conclusion of investigations in line with extant legal provisions.
Also, the IGP urged senior officers to encourage their subordinates with the aptitude for sports to participate at the forthcoming 14th Biennial Police Games (BIPOGA), themed “OLUYOLE 2024,” set to be held in Ibadan, Oyo State, from February 24th to March 2nd, 2024.
He also assured that the forthcoming Police Week/Award Ceremony would serve as an avenue to recognize officers who had exhibited bravery and dedication in upholding peace and safety.
IGP Egbetokun expressed the resoluteness of the NPF in its mission to foster a safe and secure environment conducive to national development.
